"I actually thought that it would be a little confusing during the same period of your life to be in one meeting when you're trying to make money, and then go to another meeting where you're giving it away"

This quote by Bill Gates speaks to the problem of balancing philanthropy and service. He is suggesting that it can be puzzling to be in one conference where you are attempting to make money, and after that go to another meeting where you are giving it away. This is since the two activities need different frame of minds and techniques. Earning money needs a concentrate on revenue and performance, while offering it away needs a concentrate on selflessness and generosity. It can be hard to switch in between these 2 modes of thinking, and it can be puzzling to try to do both at the same time. Bill Gates is suggesting that it is necessary to be conscious of this difficulty and to make the effort to effectively shift between the two activities.